Rider Spotlight: Archers

Nicola Philippaerts arrives to MLSJ with a foundation deeply rooted in the sport.

Published

18 FEB 2026

Est. reading time

2 min

The Belgian rider comes from one of show jumping’s most recognized families.

With his father and brothers all representing Belgium at the international level. The Philippaerts name has long been associated with top sport, and Nicola has continued to build that reputation on his own results.

Making his Season 5 debut at Leg 4 at the Highlands Cup, Philippaerts made an immediate impact with the Archers.

Fresh off Team Gold at the European Championships, he carried that form into the league and helped the Archers onto the podium at every leg he has competed at. He played a key role in the team’s first win of the season at the Highlands Cup and followed it with additional podium finishes at Tryon and the Coachella Cup.

Alongside his team success, Philippaerts delivered one of the standout individual performances of the season at Leg 5 in Tryon.

Riding the nine year old gelding Gadget Mouche, he navigated a demanding jump off and produced a double clear round to secure the 5* Grand Prix win. The pair has remained reliable at the top level, finishing clear in each of their 5* MLSJ Grand Prix appearances this season.

With consistent results in both team and individual competition, Philippaerts continues to be a major presence for the Archers as the season moves toward the final stretch and the league heads to Kentucky for Leg 8.

Nicola Philippaerts - Fast Facts

- Two time Team Gold Medalist from the European Championships (2011+2025) - $8.7M+ in Lifetime Earnings - 37% Clear Round Rate at 1.60m - Olympic Debut in Paris (2024) - Seven Career 5* Grand Prix Wins - Competed 14 horses at the FEI level in 2025